Graduate Assistant

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Grand Rapids, MI, US

The Graduate Assistant – Athletic Administration at Aquinas College plays a critical support role within the broader athletics department, gaining exposure to the operational, academic, and strategic aspects of college athletics. This position assists with game day operations, compliance, strength and conditioning, internal operations, athletic communications, and department-wide initiatives that ensure a quality student-athlete experience. Working closely with athletics leadership and support staff, the Graduate Assistant will develop essential skills in project management and student services while contributing meaningfully to the College’s mission of leadership and service.

Enrollment in the Master of Management (MM) program is required, and the successful candidate will be a proactive, detail-oriented team player who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

• Assist with game day operations, including event setup, supervision, and breakdown to ensure a seamless experience for teams, officials, and spectators.
• Support internal athletic department operations, including inventory tracking, scheduling, and administrative coordination.
• Work closely with the compliance officer to maintain up-to-date eligibility documentation and ensure adherence to NAIA, WHAC, and additional conference and institutional policies.
• Assist in athletic communications by contributing to website updates and social media content.
• Collaborate with academic support staff to monitor student-athlete academic performance and provide resources for academic success.
• Contribute to department-wide projects such as strategic planning, policy development, and annual reporting.
• Participate in planning and executing special events, including awards banquets, welcome events, and leadership programming.
• Develop and refine skills in project management, data organization, and interdepartmental collaboration.
• Represent the athletics department at campus and community functions as needed.
• Complete other duties as assigned by athletics leadership to support department goals and objectives.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace; experience with athletic software (e.g., compliance, statistics, CMS) preferred.
• Attention to detail and commitment to confidentiality, particularly in handling student records and compliance matters.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team and maintain professionalism in a fast-paced environment.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and during athletic events.
• Enrollment in the Master of Management (MM) program required.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to drive as needed.
• Ability to lift and move equipment or event materials up to 50 lbs.

• Primary work in office and event settings; requires sitting, standing, and walking throughout the day.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive as needed.
• Occasional lifting and moving of equipment or event materials (up to 50 lbs).
• Use of standard office technology (computer, phone, printer).
• Regular evening and weekend hours for game day support and departmental events.
• May involve limited travel for conferences or professional development.

Aquinas College is an equal opportunity employer and an inclusive educational community rooted in the Catholic and Dominican tradition. The College is committed to providing a quality workplace, developing a sustainable and just global community, and offers an excellent benefits package that includes affordable medical, dental, and vision plans, generous paid vacation, 16 paid holidays, paid sick time, short-term disability, and college-paid life and AD&D insurance.

Additionally, employees and their dependents are eligible for free tuition at Aquinas after one year of full-time employment.